Tutus, tulle, and tiaras

Girls must have this universal love of diaphanous gossamer-thin skirts and dresses - which is why they like to don tutus or princess costumes - even over their leggings and t-shirts. 

Despite recent efforts to rethink traditionally accepted gender characteristics, there is one immutable fact - most girls seem to gravitate towards frothy fabrics gathered at the waist, preferably dotted with sparkling rhinestones. Some even ramp up the glam factor with glittering tiaras and beribboned wands.

Of course, ballet - with its sumptuous costumes - has ignited the public imagination and remained popular since its creation in the 15th century. There is just something about pulling your hair severely up in a bun, slipping into a pair of soft leather slippers (or satin pointe shoes, as the case may be), and wriggling into a pancake tutu that makes every girl feel like a prima ballerina - whether she is practicing at a studio barre or just walking in the mall.

the next time you find yourself in a kid-friendly zone, take a look around. You would be amazed at the number of princesses- and ballerinas-in-training, in attire if not in real life.